Create a more effective event through the use of smart technology

15

Aug

Create a more effective event through the use of smart technology

As consumer technology grows more sophisticated – and commonplace – the ability of an event organizer to wow via technological integration becomes tenuous: Attendees used to smart phones, instantaneous media streaming, Bluetooth and other innovations aren’t likely to be impressed by a projected slideshow or a paper registration form on a clipboard. To design events that truly have a lasting impact, you need to be using the latest and greatest in event technology – and using it in novel, unexpected ways that generate insight, engagement and leads.

If you want to create events that impress attendees and provide value to your clients, consider including some of the following smart elements:

Impress attendees with smart badges or wristbands
Name tags may not be a favorite part of any event, but smart badges are a whole different story. These do much more than simply share a person’s name and confirm that they’re authorized to be in the space. Incorporating smart technology gives traditional badges additional practical functions, not to mention a serious dose of the “wow” factor. These badges can grant wearers automatic access to certain areas, provide their registration information to booths they visit and connect to their social media accounts.

The applications of this tech are immense. For example, PixMob LED wristbands give concert and festival attendees the opportunity to be a part of the entertainment through lights that are controlled remotely by a lighting operator and synched to music. Smart wearables by Klik speed up registration through seamless check-in and allow users to exchange contact information, enhancing networking opportunities.

Measure event traffic and increase engagement
For your clients, the ultimate goal of their event is likely to obtain conversions of some form, whether they are trying to market a product or gain new business leads. Consequently, being able to measure traffic and engagement is critical. One strategy to accomplish this goal is to use smart technology that can track the location of your guests.

Radio-frequency identification uses electromagnetic fields to monitor a chip located in badges or wristbands worn by attendees to identify their location, providing valuable information to your clients. The information can be used to see which booths attracted the most people or how long guests spent in certain areas.

Similarly, you can use BEACONS, Bluetooth-enabled devices that transmit messages to smartphones and tablets, to engage with attendees by sending certain messages and updates when they are in specific locations. For instance, within a few feet or a particular display, visitors may receive additional product information sent straight to their phone.

Engage your audience with social media
Creating an event in which your clients can interact with attendees begins long before the doors open. Though you may not directly be involved in marketing and registration, you should encourage your clients to use social media to engage with their target audience. According to Eventbrite, nearly a quarter of the traffic comes to registration and ticketing pages via social media channels.

You can then continue these social media events the day of for a cutting-edge multimedia experience. Consider incorporating an app that provides information and updates directly to users’ smartphones and makes it easier for them to share about the event on Twitter, LinkedIn and other platforms.

With a social media wall, you can project tweets and other posts onto large monitors in real-time, helping attendees to engage both with your client and each other. These animated social media displays keep guests up-to-date with what’s going on and create a visual representation of the event’s energy.

By using smart technology such as these in your event designs, you will not only provide greater value to your clients, but develop a reputation for yourself as a planner who is up-to-date with the hottest trends in the industry